All veteran interstate truckie Gerry wanted was a nice long hot shower after another big day behind the wheel battling traffic.
But all he got last week at Ampol Foodary Southbound on the M1 at Wyong, NSW, was a cold shock instead.
After towelling himself off he discovered the reason for the icy blast – the gas bottle outside the new facility was not yet hooked up to the water heater, and he even shared a picture with Big Rigs to prove it.
The truck stop facilities at this site had been closed for weeks while “works” were being done, and although Ampol had a sign up apologising for any inconvenience, the company assured truckies all the amenities would be back up and running by December 10.
Gerry understands it could be a week or two before the showers are hooked up, and can’t understand why.
“If they put as much effort into making sure we have proper amenities as they do in knocking us off on a log book error, everything would be great.
“But it’s a one-way street with no reciprocation our way it seems. The smell just about knocks you over in some of the toilets I’ve been into lately.”
Big Rigs has approached Ampol for comment.
Update:
Ampol told us that while the truckies’ lounge and facilities are closed for renovations, a temporary toilet and shower facilities for truck drivers had been provided.
But the copper connectors to the gas bottles were recently stolen resulting in the temporary loss of hot water.
“We are in the process of sourcing new connectors, and we apologise for any inconvenience in the meantime,” a spokesperson said.
When finished, the site will offer new food options as well as an upgrade to the facilities similar to the recently re-opened M1 northbound servo. The full works are due for completion in the first half of 2024.